Visa Regulation for Tourists ACR-I-Card

[moi2x]

Quote:PHILIPPINES - Effective 20 December, and according to the recently issued Memorandum from the Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines (Order No. MCl-09-024 dated 23 November 2009), additional categories of foreign nationals in the Philippines will be required to apply for an Alien Certificate of Registration Identity Card (ACR I-Card).

The Memorandum also brings in the need for an emigration clearance certificate (exit approval) for foreign nationals who have been granted a total stay in the Philippines of six months or longer.

The additional categories for ACR I-Cards are as follows:

1) Temporary visitors (including business visitors) applying for an extension of stay for over 59 days in total under section 9(a) of the Immigration Act
2) Temporary residents with a Special Study Pass (SSP), regardless of length of stay
3) Temporary residents with a Special Work Permit (SWP), regardless of length of stay.

Note also that if a SWP holder subsequently obtains a 9(g)/9(d) visa, the ACR I-Card tied to his/her SWP will become invalid and a new ACR I-Card will need to be applied for, linked to the 9(g)/9(d) visa. At this time, the authorities have not yet disclosed whether personal appearance is needed for the new ACR I-Card application (personal appearance for the first application is a requirement, as fingerprints and a photograph must be taken).

Previously, ACR I-Cards were not required for SSP holders, for SWP holders or for business visitors staying over 59 days. The ACR I-Card was required for 9(g)/9(g) visa holders, but was the final step in this process. From 20 December, applicants in this latter category will be required to obtain the ACR I-Card twice, once when the SWP is secured and then again when the 9(g)/9(d) visa endorsement is completed.

Note that foreign nationals already in the Philippines under one of the above three categories must make ACR I-Card applications as soon as possible in order to comply with the new regulations. Where applications have not been made, extension of stay will not be granted. Emigra can assist with these applications.

Exemptions
Employees of companies registered with the Philippines Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and who qualify for 47(a)(2) visas are exempt from the ACR I-Card requirement, as are SWP holders who are foreign athletes and/or performing artists and whose stay in the Philippines does not exceed fifty-nine (59) days.

The purpose of the rule is to aid the Philippines government in monitoring of temporary visitors and residents as well as to establish a single and widely recognised and accepted identity card for use in transactions for all foreign nationals in the Philippines.

For the above three categories (temporary visitors, SSP holders and SWP holders), ACR I-Cards are granted for a maximum of one year, or for the validity of the visa. For 9(g)/9(d) visa holders, ACR I-Cards are always issued in line with the visa validity. When temporary visitor visas are renewed, ACR I-Cards will need to be renewed too.

What You Need to Do Next:

* Audit employees in the Philippines and ensure that any ACR I- Card applications are made for current employees in the above three categories (contact Emigra for assistance with the audit process and/or the applications)
* Notify Emigra of employees planning to exit the Philippines so that we can apply for the emigration clearance certificate on their behalf.

Just wanted to post this so Tourists in Cebu or in Philippines generally that stay more than 59 days has to acquire an ACR-I-Card. I know its frustrating to once again see this info and be reminded about somes fees apart from those taxes.

[dodger4]

Is there an avenue for persons wishing to obtain a Permanent Resident Visa, who do not qualify under the SRRV or 13(g) provisions, to obtain an ACR to live in the Philippines?

I am not married, and have not proposed to be married, but I would like to move there and settle and live in retirement from Canada.

[kimidora]

Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs
2330 Roxas Boulevard, Passay City in Metro Manila.

DFA Cebu Branch
Causing Lozada Bldg., Osmeña Blvd., Cor. Lapu-lapu St., Cebu City
Telephone Numbers: (032) 256-3193 / 253-6798
Fax No: (032)256-0624
E-mail address: cebu@dfa.gov.ph or dfacebu@yahoo.com

Go to Cebu Branch to Apply for Visa.
It may take months, certain requirements is needed and its costly.

[dodger4]

I am living in Canada at present, although I have a visit scheduled in the fall. Cebu will be my transfer point for Camiguin. Is a personal visit required?

How "costly" do you mean?

To qualify under the SRRV or SIRV, I need significant amounts of capital $$, which I don't have...is that how costly you mean?

[amboy]

yes.Personal visit is a Must.
Probably not too costly especially for someone who can afford and i think you can.
I just copy and pasted this from the Philippine Retirement Authority Website.

WHAT IS THE SPECIAL RESIDENT RETIREE'S VISA (SRRV)
The Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) hereinafter referred to as
the "Retiree's Visa", is a special non-immigrant visa separate and
distinct from the existing visa categories defined by the Philippine
Immigration Act of 1940, as amended, and allied laws. (Sec. 1, Rule II
of LOI 1470)

LOI 1470, as a supplemental statute to E.O. 1037 was passed on July 4,
1985 aimed at:

1) Developing and promoting the Philippines as a preferred retirement
haven for former Filipinos and foreign nationals;

2) Attracting foreign exchange; and

3) Directing the issuance of the Special Resident Retiree Visa (SRRV).

The issuance of the SRRV to qualified PRA applicants, entitles the
holder to reside in the Philippines for an indefinite period with
multiple-entry privileges as long as the required minimum deposit
investment subsists. (Sec. 2, Rule II of LOI 1470)

Moreover, the SRRV offers benefits which includes the exemption from
the Exit Clearance, Re-Entry and Annual Registration requirements of
the Bureau of Immigration, Travel Tax (provided the retiree has not
stayed in the Philippines for more than a year from date of last
entry) Special Study Permit, importation of household goods/personal
effects worth US$7,000 for family use and other value added services.

The SRRV, characterized by its being indefinite with multiple-entry
privileges, partakes the nature of a permanent and/or "lifetime" visa.
Thus, guaranteeing the principal retiree and family members the
privilege to settle permanently in the Philippines and enjoy the best
quality of life in the most attractive package. This is the
Authority's international commitment and is the true meaning of
"Smiling at Life" in the Philippines.



WHO MAY APPLY?

All foreign nationals provided they are issued an entry visa by the
Philippine Embassy/Consulate and former Filipino citizens who are now
holders of foreign passports both of whom are at least 35 years old.

Register in the SSRV Program now!

HOW CAN ONE JOIN THE PRA PROGRAM?

1. If you are based in the Philippines, you may secure an application
form and file the same with the following:
Philippine Retirement Authority
29/F Citibank Tower
8741 Paseo de Roxas
Makati City 1227
Tel. No.: (632) 848-1412 to 16
Fax No.: (632) 848-1411
Direct Line: (632) 848-7104
Website: http//www.pra.gov.ph
E-mail: inquiry @pra.gov.ph

2. If you are based abroad: Through the Philippine Embassy/Consulate



WHAT ARE THE FEES FOR JOINING THE PRA PROGRAM/APPLYING FOR SRRV?

a. Processing Fee

A one-time payment of US$1,400.00 for the principal and US$300.00
for each dependent (spouse/children).
Note: These fees are inclusive of the Bureau of Immigration fees
and the fee for the issuance of the PRA I.D. Card.

b. Annual Renewal/replacement of PRA ID Card

US$10.00 per member/card/year



HOW LONG IS THE VISA VALID?

The SRRV is valid for so long as one remains a member of good standing
of the Program and provided his time deposit and/or investment exists
in the Philippines.



CAN A RESIDENT RETIREE BRING HIS/HER FAMILY MEMBERS WITH HIM/HER INTO
THE COUNTRY TO JOIN THE PROGRAM?

Yes. A resident retiree can bring with him/her, without additional
deposit, his spouse and a child who is unmarried and below 21 years
old or if the spouse is not joining, two (2) children (provided they
are unmarried and under 21 years of age). Additional children with the
same qualifications may also be allowed to join the principal retiree
provided there is an additional deposit of US$15,000.00 or equivalent
foreign currency per child. The deposit is subject to the same terms
and conditions with that of the principal deposit. This does not apply
to former Filipinos citizens.



WILL DEPENDENTS CONTINUE TO BE SRRV HOLDERS OR RETAIN THEIR SRRV EVEN
AFTER REACHING 21 YEARS OLD?

Yes. For so long as the principal retiree remains a member of the
Program, his dependents retain their SRRV even if they reach 21 years
of age and above.



WHAT HAPPENS IF THE PRINCIPAL RETIREE DIES?

The surviving spouse, provided he/she is a SRRV holder, has the option
to assume the status of a principal retiree using the original account
as his/her qualifying deposit. Should he/she not choose to become the
principal retiree, then the law on Succession prevails.

As far as the beneficiary is concerned, the withdrawal of the time
deposit should be made in accordance with the Philippine banking rules
and regulations. The beneficiary will have to pay estate tax as the
retiree is treated as a resident alien and therefore covered by the
National internal Revenue Code.


REQUIREMENTS

Retirement Option and their Required Time Deposit

1. With Pension – 50 years. Old and above – the required time deposit
is US$10, 000.00 plus a monthly pension of US$800.00 for a single
applicant and US$1,000.00 for couple

2. Without Pension

* 35 to 49 years old – US$50, 000.00 time deposit
* 50 years old and above – US$20, 000.00 time deposit
* Former Filipino Citizens (at least 35 years old, regardless of
the number of dependents – US$1,500.00
* Ambassadors of foreign countries who served and retired in the
Philippines- US$1,500.00

Note: The PRA Accredited banks agree to accept any acceptable foreign
currency for deposit in the accounts, provided that it shall be
credited to the account as the United States Dollars or Philippine
Pesos equivalent



WHAT ARE THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FROM A RETIREE BEFORE HE CAN JOIN THE
PROGRAM?

A prospective retiree-participant shall submit to PRA the following:

1. PRA application form;
2. Original passport with valid entry status;
3. Medical Examination Clearance -can be secured abroad (with
English translation) duly authenticated by the Philippine
Embassy/Consular Office. If the applicant is in the Philippines, this
can aslo be secured at the PRA One-Stop Shop
4. Bank Certificate of Dollar Time Deposit inwardly remitted to any
PRA accredited banks;
5. Police Clearance issued abroad translated into English and duly
authenticated by the Philippine/Consulate or National Bureau of
Investigation (NBI) Clearance issued in the Philippines. This also
applies to spouse and dependents 18 years of age and above (Age
requirement of 18 is for purpose of NBI Clearance only);
6. Photographs, 6 pieces 1"x1" and 6 pieces 2"x2";
7. If the spouse is also applying for SRRV, Marriage Certificate or
Marriage Contract translated into English (if necessary) and duly
authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate nearest the
applicant's residence if the marriage was contracted abroad. If the
marriage was solemnized in the Philippines, original Marriage
Certificate; and
8. If dependent/s is/are also applying for the SRRV, original Birth
Certificate/s of dependent/s born in the Philippines or Birth
Certificate/s or Household Register translated into English (if
necessary) and duly authenticated by the Philippine Embassy/Consulate
nearest the applicant's residence abroad.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS UNDER THE PROGRAM?

1. Multiple/Indefinite entry privileges with the option to reside
permanently in the Philippines.
2. Exemption from exit Clearance & Re-Entry Permits.
3. Exemption from Customs Duties and Taxes for the Importation of
Personal Effects up to US$7,000.00.
4. Exemption from Travel Tax, if stay in the Philippines is less
than a year from the last entry date.
5. Exemption from the Bureau of Immigration's Annual registration
requirement.
6. Assistance in Obtaining an Alien Employment Permit.
7. Tax-free remittance of Annuities and Pensions.
8. Guaranteed repatriation of the deposit/investment.



WHAT ARE THE OBLIGATIONS OF A SRRV HOLDER?

1. To give a written notice of any change of information supplied
in the Application Form (e.g. status, name or address) within (60)
days from such change;
2. To give a written sixty (60) day notice of termination of his
participation



DOES PRA ACCEPT CURRENCIES OTHER THAN US DOLLARS AS REQUIRED FOREIGN
CURRENCY DEPOSIT?

No. Nonetheless, the PRA Accredited Banks agree to accept any
acceptable foreign currency for deposit in the accounts, provided that
it shall be credited to the account as United States Dollars or
Philippine Peso equivalent.

after the issuance of SRRV the retiree may convert the Dollar time
deposit to Philippine Peso or Euro money.



CAN THE REQUIRED DEPOSIT BE DIVIDED INTO ANY OF PRA's ACCREDITED BANKS?

Yes, for a minimum deposit of US$10,000.00



UNDER WHOSE NAME IS THE REQUIRED FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSIT BE CREDITED?

The required foreign currency deposit maybe opened in the name of the
principal retiree or under an "and/or" account with the spouse
provided the latter is also a member of the PRA Program. This applies
also to an applicant/retiree who is legally married to a Filipino
Citizen even if not a PRA member.



WHEN CAN THE REQUIRED FOREIGN CURRENCY DEPOSIT BE CONVERTED INTO
INVESTMENT?

After one (1) month from the time it was opened in any of the PRA
accredited banks as a retiree account.


INVESTMENTS

WHAT AREAS OF INVESTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO A RESIDENT RETIREE?

The areas of investment are the following:

1. Purchase of a condominium unit;
2. Lease of a parcel of land or house and lot;
3. Construction of a residential unit on a leased parcel of land;
4. Propriety shares in golf clubs;
5. For former Filipinos, purchase of a lot not exceeding 5,000
square meters in urban areas or three (3) hectares rural areas to be
used for business or other purposes.



CAN RESIDENT RETIREE APPLY FOR PHILIPPINE CITIZENSHIP?

Yes, in accordance with the Naturalization Law of the Philippines. One
of the basic requirements for naturalization is the continuous
residency in the Philippines for a period of ten (10) years.
The period may be reduced to five (5) years if the applicant has any
of the following qualifications:

1. Has honorably held office under the Government of the
Philippines or under that of any of the provinces, cities,
municipalities, or political subdivision thereof;
2. Has established a new industry or introduced a useful invention
in the Philippines;
3. Being married to a Filipino citizen;
4. Has been engaged as a teacher in the Philippines for a period of
at least two (2) years;
5. Has been born in the Philippines.

Note: For former Filipino citizens, the Citizenship Retention and
Reacquisition Act of 2003 applies.

======================

http://immigration.gov.ph/index.php?opti...&Itemid=37

Special Retiree Resident Visa
Who may apply for Special Retiree's Resident Visa (SRRV)?

A retiree who applies for a Special Resident Retiree Visa (SRRV) has the option to enroll to the program based from his retirement status.

Retirement Option and their Required Time Deposit

1. With Pension - 50 years old and above - the required time deposit is US$10,000.00 plus a monthly pension of US$800.00 for a single applicant and US$1,000 for couple.
2. Without Pension
1. 35 to 49 years old - US$50,000.00 time deposit
2. 50 years old and above - US$20,000.00 time deposit
3. Former Filipino Citizens (at least 35 years old, regardless of the number of dependents - US$1,500.00)
4. Ambassadors of Foreign Countries who served and retired in the Philippines, current and former staff members of international organizations including ADB (at least 50 years old) - US$1,500.00
3. A resident retiree can bring with him, without additional deposit, his spouse and child who is unmarried and below 21 years old or if the spouse is not joining, two(2) children (provided they are unmarried and under 21 years of age.) Additional children with the same qualifications may also be allowed to join the principal retiree provided there is an additional deposit of US$15,000.00 per child. The said time deposit however, is subject the same and conditions with that of the principal deposit. This does not apply to former Filipino Citizens.

What is the validity of SRRV?
The holder of the SRRV may reside in the Philippines without securing extensions of his stay from the Bureau of Immigration.

Are SRRV holders exempted from Travel Tax?
PRA members who are holders of valid SRRV are exempted from paying travel tax provided they have not stayed in the Philippines for more than one year from the date of last entry into the country.

Can SRRV holder own real property in the Philippines?
No. If he or she is legally married to a Philippine citizen, he or she may construct a residential unit on a parcel of land owned and/or registered in the name of Philippine spouse. Natural-born former Filipinos whose SRRV has been issued may own/acquire a maximum area of 5,000 square meters of urban land and three (3) hectares of agricultural land.

Is the dollar deposit convertible to other currency?
The dollar deposit may be converted into peso after 30 days upon issuance of the Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV).

Where do I get the approval of the SRRV?
The approval of your application will come from the Bureau of Immigration. The pre-evaluation of the application is made by the Philippine Retirement Authority where applications are filed.

How long is the processing time?
Processing time takes seven to ten working days upon receipt of complete requirements.

Can my spouse and unmarried minor children be granted an indefinite privilege to reside in the Philippines?
Yes. Your spouse and a legitimate or legally adopted unmarried child under twenty-one (21) may be given an indefinite status if they are accompanying or joining you soon after your admission into the country as such.

Is there an additional deposit for unmarried children if they are following or accompanying me?
Yes. There is an additional deposit of US$15,000.00 or any equivalent acceptable foreign currency for each additional legitimate or legally adopted unmarried child under twenty-one (21) years of age.

*More information on Special Retiree Resident Visa on the Philippine Retirement Authority website.

[dodger4]

(06-04-2011 04:26 AM)amboy Wrote:  yes.Personal visit is a Must.
Probably not too costly especially for someone who can afford and i think you can.
I just copy and pasted this from the Philippine Retirement Authority Website.

Salamat for the information on the SRRV. However, I have already reviewed all that, and there is no way in the world that I can come up with $50k, $20k, or $10k PLUS all the fees associated with the application for a SRRV by going this route - another $2500. And we are talking USD here, not pesos!

I am relatively poor - don't simply assume that because I am a foreigner, what I can afford or not afford. Yes, I get paid more than the average Filipino wage, but all my debts and financial problems are on a corresponding scale. I owe more than I can repay - how many Filipinos are in THAT situation.

When I retire, The Philippines will be pretty well the only (English-speaking) country that I can afford to live on my small government pension. AND, I will be supporting a pretty little Filipina and her 2 small kids.

But I don't want to be a tourist there for the rest of my life. I want to be a permanent resident, and not pay the huge whack of taxes and other charges we incur simply because we are visitors or expats. We get gouged every time we turn around, and I'm getting tired of that.

[spammer]

Marrying a Filipina is the best first thing a foreigner should do to actually live permanently in the Philippines. Its what business owners here do, most of these business owners are aliens at first.

[bantayan]

(06-04-2011 05:36 PM)dodger4 Wrote:  

(06-04-2011 04:26 AM)amboy Wrote:  yes.Personal visit is a Must.
Probably not too costly especially for someone who can afford and i think you can.
I just copy and pasted this from the Philippine Retirement Authority Website.

Salamat for the information on the SRRV. However, I have already reviewed all that, and there is no way in the world that I can come up with $50k, $20k, or $10k PLUS all the fees associated with the application for a SRRV by going this route - another $2500. And we are talking USD here, not pesos!

I am relatively poor - don't simply assume that because I am a foreigner, what I can afford or not afford. Yes, I get paid more than the average Filipino wage, but all my debts and financial problems are on a corresponding scale. I owe more than I can repay - how many Filipinos are in THAT situation.

When I retire, The Philippines will be pretty well the only (English-speaking) country that I can afford to live on my small government pension. AND, I will be supporting a pretty little Filipina and her 2 small kids.

But I don't want to be a tourist there for the rest of my life. I want to be a permanent resident, and not pay the huge whack of taxes and other charges we incur simply because we are visitors or expats. We get gouged every time we turn around, and I'm getting tired of that.

Eventually, somebody will once again figure out, add rules about expats living here and again collect fee. Law in the Philippines is sick.

[dodger4]

spammer Wrote:Marrying a Filipina is the best first thing a foreigner should do to actually live permanently in the Philippines. Its what business owners here do, most of these business owners are aliens at first.

Many of them are definitely cute, but I have heard that if you're a foreigner, all they are after is your money. I think I need more than that...I like a little passion and "love" to go with my sex.

[spammer]

Quote:Many of them are definitely cute, but I have heard that if you're a foreigner, all they are after is your money. I think I need more than that...I like a little passion and "love" to go with my sex.

While this could be true. Filipinas has distinct characteristic to give back something in return and in most case, more than what they've got. They surely will love and take care of their husband.